Toxic Foods and Household Items
Listed below are some common foods and household items that are toxic or can cause a health hazard for cats and dogs.
Although not toxic in nature, the use of RAW meats and eggs, bones, and milk can all create health issues in the right conditions.
Raw foods have the increased potential of bacterial contamination of Salmonella and E. coli.
Turkey, Chicken, and other small animal bones can become a choking hazard, cause injury to the digestive tract, and possibly damage teeth.
Some animals may also be unable to digest the lactose found in milk, leading to upset stomach and diarrhea.
Dogs
Foods:
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Chocolate (ALL forms)
- Coffee or caffeinated beverages (ALL Forms)
- Onions and onion powder
- Garlic and garlic powder
- Grapes and raisins
- Macadamia Nuts
- Foods with excessive salt content
- Foods with high fat content
- Gums, candies, or other foods sweetened with XYLITOL
- Tea leaves/bags which contain caffeine
- Raw yeast dough
Drugs:
- Ibuprofen, Aleve (Naproxen)
- Cold and Flu medications
- Antidepressants
- Tobacco products
- Diet pills
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Cats
Foods:
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Chocolate (ALL Forms)
- Coffee or caffeinated beverages (ALL Forms)
- Onions and onion powder
- Garlic and garlic powder
- Foods with excessive salt content
- Foods with high fat content
- Tea leaves/bags which contain caffeine
- Raw yeast dough
Drugs:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Cold and Flu medications
- Antidepressants
- Tobacco products
- Diet pills
- Flea and Tick products containing PYRETHRINS
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Common Household Items Hazardous to both Cats and Dogs
These objects can not only be toxic, but some can cause severe organ damage. Make sure these items are not left lying around.
- Antifreeze/Coolant, Gasoline, Oil, Pesticides, Rat/Mouse/Mole/Slug/Snail/Fly Bait, Mothballs, Batteries, De-icing Salts, Lime and Scale remover, Cocoa Bean shell mulch fertilizer, and Liquid Potpourri.
These objects can cause puncture wounds, choking, or organ damage. Make sure these items are not left lying around or in a place that your furry friend can get access to.
- Bread Twist Ties, Buttons, Coins, Hair Pins, Socks, Sharp Objects, String/Yarn/Dental Floss, Fake Grass, Angel Hair or Spun Glass, Christmas Tree Water, Ornaments, Tinsel, Balloons, and Confetti.
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Areas of Concern
These areas of concern can cause different hazards based upon you and your pet's lifestyle.
- Balconies - Tall balconies without safety railings, or railings that are spaced too far apart, can lead to a dangerous fall.
- Bath tubs or Sinks - Small pets can drown in full bath tubs or sinks.
- Doors and Windows - Dogs and cats can run away if they find an open door or window. They can also get seriously injured if the run across a busy road. Windows should have screens to prevent cats or other animals from jumping out. This can be a challenge during holidays as repeatedly opening the door for guests can increase the chances of your furry friends escaping. Keep an eye on their whereabouts at all times. If feasible, keep cats in a secure area away from routes of escape during holidays.
- Electrical Cords - Your pets can be electrocuted if they bite or chew on electrical cords that are plugged in.
- Washer and Dryer - Your pets often like warm and cozy places, and the washer and dryer is no exception. Your pets can crawl into a washer or dryer without your knowledge; close the doors to these appliances when not in use, and always double check before starting.
- Holiday Plants - As beautiful and festive as they are, most holiday plants like Christmas Rose, Holly, Lilies, and Mistletoe are all toxic to cats and dogs. Be sure to keep these items out of reach of your pets during these festive times.
- Loud Noises - July 4th and New Year's are typically noisy holidays. Loud noises, like those from fireworks, may frighten your pet and can cause them to run off. Try to keep your pets in a quiet location during these times if they are easily startled by loud sounds.
- Fireworks - As beautiful as they may be, fireworks are filled with toxic fire salts and can be a fire hazard for your curious pets. Never leave fireworks unattended around pets.
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